Choosing the “right” name for your little one can be an overwhelming task. So, when G and I found out we were having a little girl, we immediately started going down the name list. Like most southern girls, I, too, love a family name. I am also partial to double names. That being said, it didn’t take us long to settle on a name- Mary Reese. Mary is my mother’s first name and Reese is Garrett’s mother’s maiden name.
While we love the meaning and traditional sound of Mary Reese’s name, others aren’t sure what to make of it. Consequently, three things happen when someone asks us our little girl’s name: 1) They get a very confused and nervous look on their face and change the subject; 2) They drop the second part of her name and refer to her as “Mary”; and 3) They mistakenly hear Mary Reese as “Maurice”…it happens all the time!
Recently, a receptionist at the eye doctor shook her head at the sound of MR’s name. I couldn’t help but be offended by her gesture. On the attack, I explained the significance of her name. Her reply, “Well I guess it’s better than what some celebrities are naming their kids these days…”
Who knows what our little Mary Reese will prefer to be called as she gets older. She might drop her double name altogether and choose to go by Mary or by Reese. It’s up to her. All I know is that our precious little girl has a name that she can be proud of; it’s a southern thing, y’all!
I’m leaving you today with some pictures from “Jazz on the Lawn” on the UVA campus. We had the best time! Julie and I caught up on “grown-up” time while the girls watched the “big kids” play. It is such a blessing that the cousins live close enough to have afternoon playdates. A big thanks to Julie and Hendley for getting us out of the house and making our afternoon so special!
Me and Mary Reese
Believe it or not, these were the best pictures we could get out of the cousins
“Oh no she didn’t just leave me here…”
Thanks for your comment the other day! I love her name… it’s precious! People are clueless about double names sometimes… but just stick with it…. or move to the DEEP South and she’ll fit right in! She’ll be one of 6 in her class with a double name!
One of my best friends has a Mary Elizabeth and she says the same thing….
I adore MR’s name and especially the meaning behind it!! Love the new updates…you are getting to be a real pro at this!
I’m thrilled that you’re back to blogging!
I laugh and nod my head while reading your great posts!! And I must start the “suggested items to buy” list—let me know how you luck out! 
i just wanted to share… everytime someone asks what the baby’s name is i reffer to her as harper jules…..i like it and that’s that! i think it is great that you call her what YOU like and will let her choose what she wants to be called later.
come see me before you head down south! my last day in hair world is may 30th!!! much love!
strollin through some of your old entries…i love her name. being a true southerner i can completly appreciate the signifigance & the beauty. i must tell you, my first hubby ( a midwesterner) would not allow me to name my second daughter mary grace….made for many jokes during my pregnancy. the girls love to hear that story. her name is madison grace but we call her madison. i love the name mary reese!!
xo